The Atlanta Braves are staring down a Tuesday evening deadline that could shape not just their 40-man roster, but potentially their future pipeline of talent. By 6 p.m., the front office must decide which Rule 5 eligible prospects they’ll shield from poaching, because make no mistake, the Rule 5 Draft is less a casual offseason curiosity and more a game of strategic exposure.
Understanding the Stakes of the Rule 5 Draft
The Rule 5 Draft exists to prevent teams from stockpiling minor league talent without offering a fair shot at the majors. If a player has been in the minors for four or five years, depending on the age at which they signed, and they aren’t added to the 40-man roster by the deadline, they become vulnerable. Eligible players can be selected by other clubs, who must keep them on their MLB roster for the entire season or return them to their original team.
For a club like the Braves, with a deep, well-developed farm system, the decision-making calculus becomes complicated. Not everyone can be protected, but the risk of losing the wrong arm or bat looms large. This year, four names are drawing close scrutiny, and any could be plucked away if left exposed.
Burkhalter and Mejia Bring Arm Talent with Varying Readiness
Blake Burkhalter, Atlanta’s No. 11 prospect, reached Triple-A in 2025 and logged a 3.77 ERA across 18 appearances, two of them starts. Previously a full-time starter, the Braves experimented with his usage, leaving some ambiguity about his long-term role. Still, his age (25) and proximity to the majors make him attractive. A team searching for either bullpen help or rotational depth could see immediate value.
Ian Mejia, ranked No. 19, is a more speculative choice, though not without upside. His 2.62 ERA and All-Star selection in Double-A make a compelling case, even if his limited Triple-A exposure adds risk. If a club believes his stuff will translate and is willing to carry a young arm on the back end of their roster, Mejia could be on the move.
Position Players and Wild Cards: McCabe and Joseph on the Fringe
Third baseman David McCabe (No. 29) showed signs of offensive promise, but his late-season promotion to Triple-A came with growing pains. A drop in OPS from .813 in Double-A to .719 at the next level reflects the adjustment curve he’s facing. Still, corner infielders with power and plate discipline don’t grow on trees; he could tempt a team lacking infield depth.
Meanwhile, right-hander Elison Joseph (No. 30) had a volatile 2025 season in Double-A, posting a 4.31 ERA with troubling command (1.66 WHIP, too many walks). However, opponents hit just .181 off him, suggesting a raw profile that might be unlocked with mechanical adjustments. His selection risk is lower, but not zero.
The Rule 5 Draft will take place on December 10 during the Winter Meetings in Orlando. Though it often passes quietly, the potential for disruption remains. If Atlanta senses real danger of losing one of these four, expect some quiet roster moves before Tuesday’s clock strikes six. In a system this deep, protecting the right names isn’t just a choice, it’s a necessity.
